Blurt: Ho Hum Gotta Exercise

Tired of that same old boring exercise routine? Have you started dreading going to the gym to do the same old stuff on the same old machines? Do you walk miles and miles on that treadmill staring at the same four walls? Sometimes we can get into a rut doing our exercises on the same days, at the same time, in the same place, and in the same way. It gets so monotonous that we just want to pull our hair out and scream. It becomes so boring we start making excuses not to exercise. Today I offer some tips to liven up your exercise program to make it less boring and more fun.

• Find something fun to do you enjoy. I know this sounds simple but true. It can be bicycling, swimming, skating, aerobics, square dancing, golfing, canoeing, kayaking, hiking, running, coaching, refereeing, window shopping, or just taking a walk in the park. The sky is the limit. What activities do you enjoy? Sit down and come up with a list and incorporate different activities throughout the week.


• Play with the kids. Use their energy to get you pumped up. You could organize a neighborhood flag football game, a game of Frisbee® golf or simply a game of tag.


• Discover a new location to get in your exercise. Instead of walking on the treadmill take a walk around the neighborhood. Instead of using the same aerobics video find another one to use on alternate days. Instead of using the stair machine use the stairs at work. By changing where you exercise you give yourself new sights and experiences to enjoy.


• Change when you exercise. If you normally exercise in the evening try switching to the morning hours. If you exercise outdoors, this can be enjoyable change because the temperature is different and there are different sounds and people out at different hours.


• Find an exercise buddy. Having someone to talk with as you work out at the gym or go for a walk can be very enjoyable. It can be a learning experience as well by discussing different methods which are working for each of you.


• Measure your results. By keeping an exercise log you can see your progress. It can be very motivating to see how far you have improved. You can invest in a pedometer or a heart rate monitor to help track your progress and insure you are getting the most from your routine. It also is a new gadget that will keep you wanting to see how far you can go.


• Set a goal to walk in walk-a-thon or a marathon. You can build up your stamina by walking to get pledges for your cause. You can participate in a marathon to receive a trophy or T-shirt to display with pride.

There are numerous ways we can escape from the boredom of exercise. The main thing is to find something you enjoy. If you are happy then you are more likely to continue to exercise. Change things up, by simply changing the way we do things will motivate us to our goals. It can be as simple as counting our reps backwards instead of forwards or as dramatic as joining a gym or a swimming community. Try different exercises and routines to keep you motivated. I am sure you will be happier and achieve your goals toward a healthier lifestyle. Exercise is important to our success and we must continue to find ways to break it up and have fun. Good luck in your goals, Take Care and God Bless.